Hi, I asked a question about how soon they test donated blood for HIV, since I heard that it doesn't show up on HIV tests until 3 months after exposure. You replied to my question saying that a Nucleic Acid Amplification Test is done as well as HIV antigen testing and HIV antibody testing and that these are an accurate test for HIV as soon as two weeks from exposure to the virus. So here's my new question. When you get tested for HIV, they tell you that if you've contracted HIV within the past 3 months, then the test will come up negative even though you will be HIV positive. So how come they use a test that only tests for HIV 3 or more months ago when the blood banks know how to test to see if you've been HIV positive as of last week?

I have talked with the Clinical Section of the Puget Sound Blood Bank and they will notify any donor whose HIV testing (no matter how it is done) that they need to see their physician for further testing of their blood for possible viral infection.  If you have further questions, I suggest you contact them directly at 671-8848 as we have no clinical connection to the Blood Bank.  If you are concerned about your HIV status, you have the option for free anonymous testing through our Self-Care Center, or can talk with one of our providers about testing through our local lab.